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Jonnie Irwin

Channel 4 and BBC TV presenter

Graduated in 1997

The frontman of TV shows including Channel 4's 'A Place in the Sun' and BBC's 'Escape to the Country', Leicester-born Jonnie Irwin graduated from the University of Central England (now Birmingham City University) in 1997 with a degree in BSc (Hons) Estate Management.

Upon graduation Jonnie embarked on a career in surveying with business transfer specialists Christie and Co, advising on the sale and purchase of businesses from private corner shops to corporate public houses and hotels.

After gaining experience with Christie and Co and taking on the role of Associate Director within three years, Jonnie then went on to join Colliers International, one of the world's leading real estate companies.

I got so much more than just a degree from Birmingham City University. I got a vocational degree, but I also got a channel into a new career. It was only at university that I realised what I wanted to specialise in and if I hadn't specialised in 'Agency' I certainly wouldn't be in front of a camera now.

At the age of 30, he was invited to audition for a pilot of Channel 4's TV programme 'A Place in the Sun - Home or Away' and over 200 episodes and nine years later Jonnie still remains one of the show's presenters today. He also currently presents BBC's 'Escape to the Country' and 'Cowboy Trap' and has previously worked on BBC's 'To Buy or Not to Buy'.

Jonnie combines his media career with running a small business and property consultancy and he is also a partner of TakeHome Media, a television development and production company.